March 20th is National Ag Day, and it’s the perfect time to discuss how we can support the local farming community, not just on this day, but all year. The Agriculture Council of America hosts National Ag Day to recognize and celebrate the contributions of agriculture, big and small. The focus is three-fold: to help people understand how our foods and fibers are produced and consider careers in agriculture, to explore the role of ag in a strong economy, and to foster an appreciation of agriculture’s ability to provide a safe, affordable, and abundant supply of food and fiber.
Whether you’re new to agriculture, a backyard grower, or a commercial farmer, there are many ways you can show your support for how our food is grown right here in your own backyard. You can:
- Shop at a local farmers’ market. When you spend your money at a local farmers’ market, you are directly supporting growers and producers. You can find a farmers’ market near you through the Fresh From Florida Community Farmers Market Locator tool.
- Visit a local u-pick agribusiness. In addition to reaping the benefits of spending time outdoors, you are directly supporting farmers and their agribusiness. Use the Fresh From Florida U-Pick Farm locator tool.
- Help children learn about agriculture by volunteering to read on Ag Literacy Day, which is May 1. Register at AgLitDay.com starting this month. You may be the first step that leads a child down the path to a career in agriculture.
These tips are just a few simple ideas for how to support your local farming community. Look to our blog at AgAmerica.com for many more industry resources and ways to support our local growers and ranchers, not just on National Ag Day, but every day.
This column is sponsored by AgAmerica Lending.
BIO: Donald Harden, a Relationship Manager for AgAmerica Lending, grew up in the cattle and citrus business, managing a family ranch of several thousand cattle and horses. He has more than 30 years of experience in the real estate business, and more than 20 years specializing in agricultural sales. Over the years, Don has been honored to serve the ag community in many facets, including as a director and on the board of the cattlemen’s association, as a manufacturer’s representative for ag equipment companies, and as a beef cattle specialist for a national feed company. For more information about Don and the AgAmerica team, call 844.238.5312 or visit AgAmerica.com